Who knew that the Irish and Mexicans would have holidays bigger in the states than in their place of origin.

“When I first arrived here and heard that 5 de mayo (Cinco de Mayo) was a big deal I was a little confused,” said Erika Gallegos, an SCC Spanish instructor who moved to the states from Mexico. “Besides a small parade held in Puebla and maybe some people getting the day off, nothing much happens. There are not really parties or anything big.”

Historically, Cinco de Mayo is the celebration of Mexico’s victory over the French in Puebla, Mexico, in 1862.

Similarly to St. Patrick’s Day, Cinco de Mayo has become an event that everyone loves to celebrate, even if they have no connection to it.

“It is a way to celebrate your heritage and have a great time,” said Kimberlee Messina, SFCC’s incumbent president who has a master’s degree in Spanish. “(It’s) also a great marketing tool for Corona beer and tequila makers.”

Wanting to celebrate Cinco de Mayo? Here are tips on how to do so with some delectable dishes. Tacos and Carne Asada are favorites and can be made at home or purchased at a local restaurant. Messina says for college students especially, a party/potluck with a taco bar is the way to go. You can have a variety of meats (meat substitutes for those who prefer that option) and salsas. The more variety, the better!

If cooking’s not your thing or you don’t have the opportunity, there are plenty of places locally to go enjoy some delicious food. The Inlander’s annual Best of the Inland Northwest readers poll was recently released, and for best Mexican food, De Leon Foods holds the gold.

“If you’re looking for some authentic, delicious dishes inspired south of the border (Mexico, not Oregon), you need to take the advice of Inlander readers and find the closest De Leon Food,” the Inlander’s Dan Nailen wrote.

A grocery store, restaurant and bakery all rolled into one, De Leon Foods currently has two locations in Spokane with more on the way.

Regardless of where you celebrate, Gallegos said, “Pico de gallo, guacamole y salsas are a must in Mexican events.” So dig in and enjoy Mexico’s victory over the French!

Recipes suggested by Dr. Messina for celebrating Cinco de Mayo:

https://tastesbetterfromscratch.com/grilled-chicken-street-tacos/

https://www.allrecipes.com/recipe/265382/authentic-baja-mexican-street-tacos-carne-asada/

https://www.delish.com/cooking/recipe-ideas/recipes/a53296/easy-fish-taco-recipe/